A volunteer with the DuPage County Forest Preserve District found this rare blue bullfrog at Hidden Lake Forest Preserve in Downers Grove. An ecologist said the rare coloring is the result of a genetic mutation.

Courtesy of Jerry Zamirowski

Some of the birds taken from the home of an Aurora man who had hundreds of the creatures, both living and dead, in his townhouse.

Bev Horne | Staff Photographer

Lance, a 44-year-old African spurred tortoise, went missing in June but eventually was reunited with his Lombard family.

Daily Herald file photo

Naperville police officer Eddie Corneliusen and his partner, Kairo, on a walk. The 11-year-old Kairo retired this year.

Paul Michna | Staff Photographer

Tango, a skateboard-riding cockatiel, went missing Thanksgiving Day but returned safe and sound to his Lombard home after a harrowing journey.

Daniel White | Staff Photographer

Several dozen volunteers raised questions about the health and safety of horses housed at the Danada Equestrian Center, but an independent vet found few serious problems.

Daily Herald file photo